Hallgrímsson hands Ferguson and O'Brien starting berths for Aviva clash with Bulgaria
ake O'Brien of Republic of Ireland before the UEFA Nations League B/C Play-off 2nd Leg match between Republic of Ireland and Bulgaria. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
Jake O’Brien has been elevated to the starting line-up for Ireland as they aim to consolidate their status in League B of Uefa Nations League.
Thursday’s 2-1 win in Plovdiv generates a small cushion for Ireland to expand at Lansdowne Road (7.45pm).
Heimir Hallgrímsson has brought O’Brien in to replace centre-back Dara O’Shea while Ryan Manning misses out for Evan Ferguson.
The inclusion of the Premier League pair illustrates the options available to the Icelander and it also affords him the opportunity of reviving the partnership between Ferguson and Troy Parrott.
Ireland's Evan Ferguson with Alex Petkov of Bulgaria. Pic: Ryan Byrne/Inpho
It remains to be seen what formation the manager adopts but it clearly reflects his stated aim of seeking additional goals rather than defending the lead.
Should Bulgaria manage to equalise and the tie remain level, extra-time and penalties will be necessary.
IRELAND: C Kelleher; M Doherty, N Collins, J O’Brien, R Brady; J Cullen, J Knight; M Johnston, F Azaz, T Parrott; E Ferguson.